Solar cell, module, array, network, and power grid

ABSTRACT

The present invention teaches a solar cell, a solar module, a solar array, a network of solar arrays, and also a solar power grid suitable for providing power for industrial, residential and transportation use. A solar cell or solar module including a plurality of solar cells can be made in a structure configured to have the appearance of natural foliage. Accordingly, a solar array including a plurality of solar modules each including at least one solar cell can be made to resemble a palm tree, a deciduous tree, an evergreen tree, or other type of natural foliage. A network of solar arrays can be made to resemble a row or grove of palm trees, and thus meet the functional and aesthetic demands of landscape architecture. The network of solar arrays can extend for many miles alongside roads, highways, railways, pipelines, or canals, and can further include means for storing and transmitting electric power. In particular, a network of solar arrays can be in communication with recharging stations for use by electric and hybrid transportation vehicles. Accordingly, a network of solar arrays can form at least a portion of a solar power grid.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a solar cell, a solar module, a solararray, a network of solar arrays, and a solar power grid for generatingelectric power for industrial, residential, and transportation use.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The world's present population is over six billion, and it is projectedthat by the year 2020 it will grow to over nine billion persons.Worldwide power consumption in 1997 was approximately 380 quadrillionBritish thermal units (Btu), and in response to the projected growth inpopulation and industry the demand for power is expected to grow toabout 608 quadrillion Btu by the year 2020. Likewise, worldwideconsumption of oil is presently over 75 million barrels per day, anddemand is expected to grow to about 120 million barrel per day by theyear 2020. The world's oil reserves are estimated to be approximately1,027 billion barrels. Fossil fuels such as coal, gas, and oil arenon-renewable resources, and the burning of these fuels results inpollution of the earth's atmosphere, land, and water. Further, theburning of various fossil fuels contributes to global warming anddramatic changes in climate, thus mankind is presently faced with anenvironmental catastrophe. Various alternate means of producing powersuch as hydrogen cells are presently being developed for use. However,even the burning of a non-fossil fuel such as hydrogen can possiblycontribute to the problem of global warming. The United States and otherindustrialized nations of the world are still largely dependent uponinternal combustion engines for transportation which consume gasoline ordiesel fuel. Accordingly, the demand for a renewable and environmentallyfriendly source of power is one of the foremost needs and problemsfacing mankind.

Moreover, the creation of power generating facilities have sometimescompromised aesthetics and had other adverse environmental impacts. Damshave sometimes restricted the navigation of waterways and adverselyeffected fish populations such as salmon in the Pacific Northwest regionof the United States. Nuclear power stations have been associated withradiation leaks, pollution, and the production of hazardous radioactivewaste, whereas coal, oil and gas burning power stations are associatedwith more conventional forms of pollution. The installation of poles andoverhead transmission lines alongside roads can constitute a hazard formotorists and compromise aesthetics. Substantially all of the energyrequired for the creation and maintenance of life on the earth wasoriginally provided by the sun. Solar energy is renewable andenvironmentally friendly. Faced with population, energy, and pollutioncrises, mankind can take a lesson from nature. The evolution of treesand other natural foliage on earth has been such as to maximize theirability to collect sunlight and perform photosynthesis. The presentinvention is directed towards providing renewable solar energy usingsolar arrays which resemble and emulate some of the light gatheringabilities of natural foliage. In the words of Thomas Aquinas, “Gracedoes not abolish nature but perfects it.”

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention teaches a solar cell, a solar module, a solararray, a network of solar arrays, and also a solar power grid suitablefor providing power for industrial, residential and transportation use.A solar cell or solar module including a plurality of solar cells cancomprise a structure configured to have the appearance of naturalfoliage. Accordingly, a solar array including a plurality of solarmodules each including at least one solar cell can be made to resemble apalm tree, a deciduous tree, an evergreen tree, or other type of naturalfoliage. A network of solar arrays can be made to resemble a row orgrove of palm trees, and thus meet the functional and aesthetic demandsof landscape architecture. A network of solar arrays can extend for manymiles alongside roads, highways, railways, pipelines, or canals. Anetwork of solar arrays can comprise means for storing electric power. Anetwork of solar arrays can comprise means for transmitting electricpower. A network of solar arrays can comprise recharging stations foruse by electric and hybrid transportation vehicles. A network of solararrays can comprise at least a portion of a solar power grid.

The present invention teaches a solar cell comprising a structureconfigured to resemble natural foliage. The solar cell can comprise astructure configured to resemble a leaf. Alternatively, the solar cellcan comprise a structure configured to resemble a branch including atleast one leaf. Moreover, a solar cell can comprise a structure figuredto resemble a leaf comprising a palm frond. A solar cell comprising astructure configured to resemble natural foliage can further includeintegral energy storage means such as a battery, or a capacitor. A solarcell comprising a structure configured to resemble natural foliage canfurther include one or more other electronic devices such as atransistor, diode, or chip.

The present invention teaches a solar module including a plurality ofsolar cells comprising a structure configured to resemble naturalfoliage. The solar module including a plurality of solar cellscomprising a structure configured to resemble natural foliage cancomprise a leaf. Further, the solar module including a plurality ofsolar cells comprising a structure configured to resemble naturalfoliage can comprise a branch including at least one leaf. The solarmodule including a plurality of solar cells comprising a structureconfigured to resemble natural foliage can comprise a leaf comprising apalm frond.

The present invention teaches a solar array comprising a structureconfigured to resemble natural foliage. The solar array can comprise astructure configured to resemble a plant such as a fern, a bush, grass,or other plant variety or species. In particular, a preferred solararray comprises a structure configured to resemble natural foliagecomprising a tree, such as a palm tree, a deciduous tree, or anevergreen tree. The solar array comprising a structure configured toresemble natural foliage can comprise a plurality of solar modules eachincluding at least one solar cell. The solar array comprising astructure configured to resemble natural foliage can further compriseelectrical energy storage means such as a battery or capacitor. Thesolar array comprising a structure configured to resemble naturalfoliage can further comprise an inverter for changing DC current to ACcurrent. The solar array comprising a structure configured to resemblenatural foliage can further comprise means for transmitting electricpower. The solar array comprising a structure configured to resemblenatural foliage can further comprise means for recharging electricappliances. The solar array comprising a structure configured toresemble natural foliage can further comprise means for recharging atransportation vehicle.

The present invention teaches a network of solar arrays each including aplurality of solar modules comprising a structure configured to resemblenatural foliage. A network of solar arrays each including a plurality ofsolar modules comprising a structure configured to resemble naturalfoliage can extend substantially alongside at least one road.Accordingly, a network of solar arrays each including a plurality ofsolar modules comprising a structure configured to resemble naturalfoliage can extend alongside a plurality of roads and highways.Alternatively, or in addition, the network of solar arrays eachincluding a plurality of solar modules comprising a structure configuredto resemble natural foliage can extend substantially alongside canals.Alternatively, or in addition, the network of solar arrays eachincluding a plurality of solar modules comprising a structure configuredto resemble natural foliage can extend substantially alongside arailway. Alternatively, or in addition, a network of solar arrays eachincluding a plurality of solar modules comprising a structure configuredto resemble natural foliage can comprise a portion of the landscapearchitecture about a building. For example, the network of solar arrayseach including a plurality of solar modules comprising a structureconfigured to resemble natural foliage can comprise a portion of thelandscape architecture about a residential home. A network of solararrays each including a plurality of solar modules comprising astructure configured to resemble natural foliage can be in communicationwith at least one recharging station for transportation vehicles.

The present invention teaches a network of solar arrays each including aplurality of solar modules comprising a structure configured to resemblenatural foliage which can comprise at least a portion of a solar powergrid. The solar power grid can include means for storing electric powersuch as a battery or capacitor. The solar power grid can further includea transformer for changing the voltage of current. A transformer cancomprise a step-up transformer for increasing the voltage of current, oralternatively can comprise a step-down transformer for decreasing thevoltage of current. The solar power grid can further include an inverterfor changing DC current to AC current, and also a converter for changingAC current to DC current. The solar power grid can further include meansfor transmitting electric power such as transmission lines. A network ofsolar arrays each including a plurality of solar modules comprising astructure configured to resemble natural foliage can comprise at least aportion of a solar power grid which can further include at least onerecharging station for transportation vehicles.

Moreover, the present invention teaches a network of solar arraysextending substantially alongside at least one road, said network beingin communication with at least one recharging station for providingelectric power for transportation vehicles.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective side view of an artificial palm tree thatconsists of a solar array.

FIG. 2 is a top plan view of an artificial palm frond that consists of asolar module including at least one solar cell for use with anartificial palm tree that consists of a solar array.

FIG. 3 is a top plan view an alternate artificial palm frond thatconsists of a solar module including a plurality of solar cells for usewith an artificial palm tree that consists of a solar array.

FIG. 4 is a top plan view an alternate artificial palm frond including aplurality of blades that consists of a solar module including aplurality of solar cells for use with an artificial palm tree thatconsists of a solar array.

FIG. 5 is a side cross-sectional view of an alternate solar moduleincluding a solar cell having a textured surface including a pluralityof peaks and valleys.

FIG. 6 is a side cross-sectional view of an alternate solar moduleincluding a solar cell including an integral capacitor.

FIG. 7 is a top plan view of one layer of artificial palm fronds, eachartificial palm frond consisting of a solar module including at leastone solar cell for use with an artificial palm tree that consists of asolar array.

FIG. 8 is a top plan view of two staggered layers of artificial palmfronds, each artificial palm frond consisting of a solar moduleincluding at least one solar cell for use with an artificial palm treethat consists of a solar array.

FIG. 9 is a perspective side view of an artificial palm tree thatconsists of a solar array showing one possible orientation of fivelayers of artificial palm fronds, each artificial palm frond consistingof a solar module including at least one solar cell.

FIG. 10 is a side cross-sectional view of a top portion of a trunk of anartificial palm tree that consists of a solar array including provisionfor four layers, and also a cap portion showing both internal andexternal components.

FIG. 11 is a side cross-sectional view of an alternate top portion of anartificial palm tree including provision for two layers showing bothinternal and external components.

FIG. 12 is a side cross-sectional view of an alternate top portion of anartificial palm tree including provision for one layer showing bothinternal and external components.

FIG. 13 is a side view with parts broken away of an alternate middleportion of a trunk of an artificial palm tree including at least twosections which can be removably secured together to substantiallydetermine the overall height of an artificial palm tree.

FIG. 14 is a side cross-sectional view of an alternate top portion andcap portion of a trunk of an artificial palm tree for accommodating atransformer.

FIG. 15 is a side cross-sectional view of a bottom portion of a trunkand also a footing of an artificial palm tree that consists of a solararray.

FIG. 16 is a side cross-sectional view of a bottom portion of a trunk ofan artificial palm tree generally similar to that shown in FIG. 15, butincluding additional electrical devices within the interior compartment.

FIG. 17 is a top perspective view of an alternate access door to theinterior compartment of the bottom portion of the trunk of an artificialpalm tree.

FIG. 18 is a side perspective view of a solar electric power controlpanel for possible residential use.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of one side of a street and sidewalkincluding a row of artificial palm trees that consist of solar arrays.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of two rows of artificial palm trees thatconsist of solar arrays positioned on opposite sides of a street.

FIG. 21 is a top plan view of a section of interstate highway showing aplurality of artificial palm trees that consist of solar arrays.

FIG. 22 is a side perspective view of an electric or hybrid automobileparked at an electric recharging station by the side of a road.

FIG. 23 is a top view of an artificial oak leaf for use with anartificial deciduous oak tree that consists of a solar array.

FIG. 24 is a top view of an artificial maple leaf for use with anartificial deciduous maple tree that consists of a solar array.

FIG. 25 is a side perspective view of an artificial deciduous maple treethat consists of a solar array.

FIG. 26 is a top view of a portion of an artificial evergreen treebranch and leaf for use with an artificial evergreen tree that consistsof a solar array.

FIG. 27 is a side perspective view of an artificial evergreen tree thatconsists of a solar array.

FIG. 28 is a top view of an artificial fern leaf for making anartificial fern plant consisting of a solar array.

FIG. 29 is a side perspective view of an artificial palm tree thatconsists of a solar array including a plurality of artificial palmfronds that consist of solar modules.

FIG. 30 is a flow diagram showing a solar array in communication with agrid-tie DC to AC inverter that is in communication with low voltage ACpower transmission lines associated with an AC power grid.

FIG. 31 is a flow diagram showing a solar array in communication withlow voltage DC power transmission lines associated with a DC solar powergrid.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention teaches a solar cell, a solar module, a solararray, a network of solar arrays, and also a solar power grid suitablefor providing power for industrial, residential and transportation use.A solar cell or solar module including a plurality of solar cells can bemade in a structure configured to have the appearance of naturalfoliage. Accordingly, a solar array including a plurality of solarmodules each including at least one solar cell can be made to resemble apalm tree, a deciduous tree, an evergreen tree, or other type of naturalfoliage. A network of solar arrays can be made to resemble a row orgrove of palm trees, and thus meet the functional and aesthetic demandsof landscape architecture. In the present application, the word roadshall be understood to mean any path, road, street, or highway fortransportation, and the word railway shall be understood to mean anymode or means of transportation guided by at least one rail. A networkof solar arrays can extend for many miles alongside roads, highways,railways, pipelines, or canals, and can further include means forstoring and transmitting electric power. A network of solar arrays canthereby provide power for residential, industrial, and transportationuse. In particular, a network of solar arrays can be in communicationwith at least one recharging station for use by electric and hybridtransportation vehicles. Accordingly, a network of solar arrays can format least a portion of a solar power grid.

Photovoltaic solar cells having a monocrystalline, polycrystalline, oramorphous structure, and an efficiency in the range between 1-35 percenthave been in use for some time, and the associated cost of electricityusing this technology has been in the range between 20-30 cents perkilowatt-hour, as compared with 9-10 cents for hydroelectric generatedpower. However, the efficiency of photovoltaic solar cells continues toimprove, and their costs continue to decline such that they are expectedto be as cost-effective as other forms of power within the next decade.

The following U.S. Patents are directed to photovoltaic roofing orshading applications: U.S. Pat. No. 4,636,579, U.S. Pat. No. 5,385,848,U.S. Pat. No. 5,433,259, U.S. Pat. No. 5,478,407, U.S. Pat. No.5,482,569, U.S. 2002/0129849, and U.S. 2002/0134422, all of thesepatents and patent applications hereby being incorporated by referenceherein. Further, the following U.S. Patents are directed to photovoltaiclights or signs: U.S. Pat. No. 4,200,904, U.S. Pat. No. 4,224,082, U.S.Pat. No. 4,281,369, U.S. Pat. No. 4,718,185, U.S. Pat. No. 4,841,416,U.S. Pat. No. 4,989,124, U.S. Pat. No. 5,149,188, U.S. Pat. No.5,564,816, U.S. Pat. No. 6,060,658, U.S. Pat. No. 6,455,767, U.S.D353,014, all of these patents hereby being incorporated by referenceherein.

Solar cells have often been made in panels which comprise a relativelyrigid material such as crystalline silicon or crystalline galliumarsenide. However, photovoltaic solar cells can also be made in the formof flexible plastic thin film, such as Powerfilm 8 made by Iowa ThinFilm Technologies, Inc., which holds both U.S. Pat. No. 6,300,158, andU.S. Pat. No. 5,385,848, these patents hereby being incorporated byreference herein. Solar cells have also been made in the form oftextiles and fabrics, or alternatively, they can be affixed to textileand fabric materials as taught in U.S. Pat. No. 4,768,738, U.S. Pat. No.5,478,407, U.S. Pat. No. 6,237,521, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,224,016, all ofthese patents hereby being incorporated by reference herein. Thefollowing U.S. patents and patent applications relate to solar cells,and in particular, many specifically relate to making thin film solarcells: U.S. Pat. No. 4,609,770, U.S. Pat. No. 4,670,293, U.S. Pat. No.4,689,874, U.S. Pat. No. 5,584,940, U.S. Pat. No. 5,674,325, U.S. Pat.No. 5,863,354, U.S. Pat. No. 6,160,215, U.S. Pat. No. 6,168,968, U.S.Pat. No. 6,211,043, U.S. Pat. No. 6,224,016, U.S. Pat. No. 6,271,053,U.S. Pat. No. 6,294,722, U.S. Pat. No. 6,310,281, U.S. Pat. No.6,327,994, U.S. Pat. No. 6,380,477, U.S. Pat. No. 6,437,231, U.S. Pat.No. 6,543,725, U.S. Pat. No. 6,552,405, U.S. 2 001/0020485, U.S.2002/0000242, U.S. 2002/0092558, U.S. 2002/0139411, and U.S.2002/0153037, U.S. 2002/0182769, U.S. 2003/0029493, U.S. 2003/0041894,U.S. 2003/0113481, U.S. 2003/0127127, U.S. 2003/0127128, all of thesepatents and patent applications hereby being incorporated by referenceherein. Some of the advances and reduction in the cost of photovoltaicsolar cells is expected to derive from the ability to make extremelythin film solar cells.

Alternately, photovoltaic solar cells can also be made by painting orotherwise coating the surfaces of a desired substrate. Other electronicdevices such as capacitors, resistors, transistors can also be made inthis manner, and these can be included and used in combination with asolar cell. For example, see U.S. Pat. No. 6,099,637, U.S. Pat. No.6,124,378, U.S. Pat. No. 6,480,366, U.S. Pat. No. 6,576,290, U.S.2002/0157702, U.S. 2002/0158584, and U.S. 2003/0141417, by James E.Cordaro, and also U.S. Pat. No. 4,414,252 to Curtis M. Lampkin, all ofthese patents and patent applications hereby being incorporated byreference herein. Further, A. Paul Alivisatos, a professor of chemistryat University of California, Berkeley and others at Lawrence BerkeleyNational Laboratory are developing solar cells consisting of nanorodsdispersed in an organic polymer or plastic which can be painted onto asurface. These researchers anticipate making solar cells which canabsorb light having several different colors and wavelengths in order tobetter span the spectrum associated with sunlight. In addition, Neal R.Armstrong in the Department of Chemistry and others at the University ofArizona, are working to develop organic molecules that self-assemble ororganize from liquid into efficient solar cell coatings, thus creatingorganic solar cell thin-films.

Conventional solar cells are commonly made in standard geometric shapessuch as squares, rectangles, or circles. However, the present inventionteaches making solar cells and solar modules including at least onesolar cell having the appearance of leafs, palm fronds, branches,plants, trees and other natural foliage. Further, the present inventionteaches making solar cells and solar modules in colors to resemblenatural foliage. For example, plastic solar cell thin films and solarcells made by painting or other coating process can be pigmented toassume a desired color, and this can include the primary colors red,yellow, blue, and green, as well as a multiplicity of other colors,shades, and tones. Moreover, instead of the individual solar cells in asolar module being square, rectangular, or circular in appearance, thepresent invention teaches solar cells having a structure configured toresemble that of natural foliage, and in particular, the structuresfound in various types of leaves which commonly include a plurality ofveins and isolated groups of cells. As a result, artificial leaves, palmfronds, branches, plants, and trees, as well as other artificial foliagecan be created which closely resemble their natural counterparts.Besides providing clean and renewable solar generated electric power,the artificial foliage can provide shade, serve as windbreak, and meetboth the functional and aesthetic demands of landscape architecture.

Palm trees line the streets of Beverly Hills, Calif., but also LasPalmas Drive in Hope Ranch, and also along the beach in Santa Barbara,Calif., a location that is sometimes called the American Riviera.Similarly, palm trees line the street and beach area in the city ofBandol, France and much of the French Riviera. Further, the presence ofpalm trees has long been associated with the presence of an oasis,water, life, and wealth in the Middle East. Accordingly, palm trees linemost of the major streets and highways in the United Arab Emirates. Incontrast with conventional power and telephone poles associated withoverhead transmission lines, a palm tree, even an artificial palm tree,has an appearance which is aesthetically pleasing and associated with anupscale community. Artificial palm trees having a realistic appearanceand a height between 8-28 feet are presently made and distributed byEarthflora.com of Cleveland, Ohio. Antenna towers which are disguised tohave the appearance as trees are taught in U.S. Pat. No. 5,611,176, U.S.Pat. No. 5,787,649, U.S. Pat. No. 6,343,440, and U.S. 2002/0184833, allof these patents and the patent application hereby being incorporated byreference herein.

A multitude of different palm tree species exist having differentcharacteristics. Common varieties of palm trees include date palms,banana palms, coconut palms, queen palms, and royal palms. Palm treeshaving upwards of six and even thirty or more leaves or palm fronds arecommon. Trees are one of nature's solar collectors. The palm tree oftenincludes a multiplicity of palm fronds projecting at a plurality ofdifferent angles and orientations relative to the truck of the palm treein order to maximize its ability to capture light. The resulting exposedsurface area can be substantial, and in this regard nature has providedan efficient model for capturing sunlight from sunrise to sunset.Further, when the ground surface surrounding a tree such as a palm treeconsists of light colored sand or other surface that reflectssubstantial light, the tree's leaves or palm fronds can capturereflected light as well as direct sunlight. Accordingly, light cansometimes be captured by the bottom side of the leaves or palm fronts aswell as the top side. This greatly increases the exposed surface areaand enhances the ability of the foliage to capture light.

In an embodiment of the present invention, an artificial palm treeconsisting of a solar array can be created by using between six andforty artificial palm fronds, although a greater or lesser number ofartificial palm fronds can be used, as desired. For the purpose ofproviding an example concerning the performance of such a solar array, amodel can be constructed using photovoltaic thin film made by Iowa ThinFilm Technology, Inc. A total of thirty-two artificial palm fronds canbe arranged in four staggered layers with each layer including eightartificial palm fronds. The artificial palm fronds can have a stemapproximately one and one half feet long. The working surface of theblade portion of each of the artificial palm fronds can measureapproximately one foot by six feet, thus providing an area of six squarefeet. Accordingly, the total working surface area of the artificial palmtree model can consist of 192 square feet.

The resulting solar array can produce significant amounts of electricalpower. In particular, each artificial palm frond including a R15-1200Powerfilm ® module made by Iowa Thin Film Technology, Inc. operates at15.4 volts and produces 1.2 amps. Multiplying the volts times the ampsyields 18.48 watt-hours of power, and then multiplying the rounded off18 watt-hours by eight hours of sunlight yields 144 watt-hours per dayfor each artificial palm frond. Further, multiplying 144 watt-hours bythirty two fronds yields 4.6 kilowatt-hours per day for a singleartificial palm tree consisting of a solar array. If and when therewould be more than eight hours of sunlight, or when the artificial palmfronds would be larger in size, or when an additional thirty twoR15-1200 Powerfilm ® modules would be affixed to the bottom side of theartificial palm fronds as well, then the amount of power generated in asingle day would be increased over and above the 4.6 kilowatt-hours perday.

A large portion of the Southwest region of the United States averagesbetween six and seven hours of peak solar exposure or so-called “fullsun hours” during the day, and the peak solar exposure in desert regionslocated closer to the equator is even greater. The sun's power orirradiance peaks at about 1,000 watts per square meter per hour. Mostcommercially available crystalline silicon photovoltaic solar cells havean efficiency of about 14-16 percent, but at least one major manufacturehas a solar cell in development which can exceed 35 percent efficiency.Typical amorphous solar cells such as those commonly associated withflexible thin-films presently have an efficiency of approximately 5-6percent, but thin-film solar cells are also in development which havegreater efficiency. It would be possible to enjoy sunny days at least 75percent of the time when the solar array would be located in SouthernCalifornia, Arizona, or Nevada, thus providing about 294 days ofproductive power generation each year. In this regard, a solar referencecell such as one made or distributed by Kyocera Solar, Inc. ofScottsdale, Ariz. can be used to measure the solar energy present in agiven location. A solar array which can produce 4.6 kilowatt-hours giveneight hours of exposure each day can generate approximately 1,352kilowatt-hours each year, that is, given 294 productive days and a totalof 2,262 productive hours. However, in desert climates such as theUnited Arab Emirates there could well be 360 productive days each year,thus 1,656 kilowatt-hours could be produced over 2,880 productive hours.

The artificial palm tree model consisting of a solar array can include atrunk approximately twenty feet high and have an overall height of abouttwenty-four feet. Further, each solar array can have a diameter ofapproximately sixteen feet, that is, given the span of two opposingartificial palm fronds each including stems one and one half feet long,blades six feet long, and a pole or trunk having a diameter of one foot.Given these dimensions, it can be advantageous that the artificial palmtrees be separated by approximately thirty two feet on center in orderto provide approximately sixteen feet of space between the ends of theartificial palm fronds in closest proximity, as this will avoidcounterproductive shading out of adjacent artificial palm trees andsolar arrays when the sun is inclined at less than 45 degrees withrespect to the underlying ground surface. Accordingly, a single row ofartificial palm trees and solar arrays spaced thirty two feet apart onboth sides of a road can total approximately 330 units over a linearmile, and when a staggered double row is used on both sides of a highwaythe total can be approximately 660 units. Multiplying 1,352kilowatt-hours per individual artificial palm tree and solar array peryear given 294 productive days by 660 units along each mile of highwayyields 892,320 kilowatt-hours per year. The average U.S. home consumesapproximately 8,900 kilowatt-hours each year, thus each mile of highwayso equipped could satisfy the power requirements of approximately 100homes.

In the worst case scenario, given present distributor pricing forR15-1200 Powerfilm photovoltaic thin film, the cost of each installedmodel artificial palm tree solar array would be approximately $13,000.dollars. The cost of 660 solar arrays along a one mile stretch ofhighway would then be approximately $8,580,000. dollars. Assuming thatthe solar arrays would have a twenty year working life, then the annualcost for providing power to approximately 100 homes would be $429,000.dollars, or $4,290. dollars for each home. In the Pacific Northwestregion of the United States, the cost of electricity is approximately 10cents per kilowatt-hour, thus the annual cost of electricity for a homethat consumes 8,900 kilowatt-hours is only $890. dollars. The relativecost of the photovoltaic solar energy system would then be approximately4.8 times greater than that of the existing system in the PacificNorthwest. However, if the solar arrays would enjoy a forty year workinglife the annual cost for providing power to approximately 100 homeswould be $214,500. dollars, or $2,145. dollars for each home. Therelative cost of the photovoltaic solar energy system would then beapproximately 2.4 times greater than that of the existing system in thePacific Northwest.

However, the present distributor pricing for R15-1200 Powerfilmphotovoltaic thin film is based upon a scale of production associatedwith the manufacture of only several thousand feet of material. If eachartificial palm tree and solar array would use thirty two artificialpalm fronds including a one foot by six foot long photovoltaic thin-filmsolar module, then 192 linear feet of such material would be requiredjust to cover the top sides of the artificial palm fronds. The creationof 660 solar arrays over a mile of highway would require some 126,720linear feet or approximately 24 miles of material. Accordingly, 100miles of highway would require 2,400 miles of such material, and 1,000miles of highway would require 24,000 miles of such material, that is,nearly equal to the circumference of the earth. Accordingly, the cost ofproducing photovoltaic thin film would decrease dramatically whenmanufactured on this scale. If the cost of the photovoltaic materialused to make the solar modules can be cut in half when manufactured onthis scale, and the solar arrays have a working life of forty years,then the cost of producing solar energy by this means equals the 9-10cents per kilowatt-hour presently being paid by homeowners in thePacific Northwest.

Once installed, the solar arrays can be easily maintained withoutsubstantial further expense. The artificial palm frond and solar moduleportion of the solar arrays can be recycled and renewed at the end oftheir expected twenty to forty year service life. If and when newer andmore highly efficient artificial palm fronds and solar modules becomeavailable, then the older and less efficient components can be easilyreplaced without requiring significant changes to the network of solararrays and solar power grid.

It is also important to recognize that the above calculations areunrealistically biased in favor of the status quo, as they are based onthe assumption that the present cost of residential electric power inthe Pacific Northwest will remain fixed at the present price of 9-10cents per kilowatt-hour over the next forty years. Given theever-increasing demand for energy this will certainly not be the case.Further, the Pacific Northwest is fortunate to enjoy hydroelectricpower, whereas most of the United States and the rest of the world isdependent upon the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas inorder to generate electric power. The cost of burning fossil fuels toproduce energy is expected to increase dramatically over the next twentyto forty year time horizon. In fact, some experts believe that theworld's non-renewable fossil fuel reserves will be largely exhaustedduring this period. In contrast, the cost of making and producingphotovoltaic solar cells is expected to decrease dramatically.

Moreover, it should also be recognized that the investment costsassociated with creating a network of solar cell arrays and solar powergrid today will be partially offset by the effects of inflation over thenext twenty to forty year period, as was the case with the dams andhydroelectric power plants built during the administration of PresidentFranklin Roosevelt. Inflation is difficult to predict with greatcertainty, but since 1980 the value of the dollar has decreased suchthat it now enjoys slightly less than 50 percent of its formerpurchasing power. In particular, it would have taken $2.18 in 2002 tomatch the purchasing power of one dollar in 1980. Accordingly, in theyears 2020 and 2040 the investment made today in photovoltaic solarenergy will appear as cost effective and prudent as the hydroelectricpower initiatives of the 1930's and 1940's.

It can also be maintained that the net social welfare benefit associatedwith the use of clean and renewable solar power, as opposed tonon-renewable fossil fuels such as petroleum, natural gas, or coal, alsoincludes the cost savings and investment associated with the latterresources not being consumed. A barrel of oil saved is in some sense abarrel of oil earned, that is, it is a form of accumulated wealth. Forexample, when renewable solar energy is used the world has essentiallysaved the equivalent amount of energy associated with burning fossilfuels and saved it for higher value added use in the future. When viewedfrom a time horizon of a hundred or thousand years, fossil fuels such aspetroleum are worth far more in the ground, than they are today whensimply burned-up as fuel.

It is possible to roughly estimate the net social welfare benefitassociated with using clean and renewable solar power as opposed tonon-renewable fossil fuels such as petroleum, natural gas, or coal. Thepresent cost of a barrel containing 42 gallons of crude oil isapproximately $30.00 dollars, but this represents only about 42 percentof the cost of a petroleum end product as delivered to a consumer, thusthe actual cost to a household would be approximately $ 71.42 dollars.One barrel of crude oil is equal to 5,800,000 Btu, and one gallon ofgasoline is equal to 124,000 Btu, whereas one gallon of diesel fuel isequal to 139,000 Btu. One kilowatt-hour of electricity is equal to 3,412Btu. Accordingly, one barrel of crude oil is equal to approximately1,670 kilowatt-hours. The annual energy consumption associated withelectric power and heating for the average home in the United States isapproximately 8,900 kilowatt-hours. However, the energy consumption ofthe average middle class home in the United States is greater. Theinventor presently owns a 2,450 square foot home in a suburb ofPortland, Oreg. Last year about $ 567. dollars was paid for electricpower, and about $815. dollars was paid for natural gas for a total ofapproximately $1,381. dollars. Converting that sum into kilowatt-hoursgiven a present cost of 10 cents per kilowatt-hour yields a total annualconsumption of 13,810 kilowatt-hours.

Furthermore, the annual fuel consumption and energy cost associated withthe use of an automobile in the United States should also be considered.An automobile that uses gasoline having a fuel efficiency of 20 miles tothe gallon which is driven 12,000 miles each year will consumeapproximately 600 gallons of gasoline. Given a gasoline fuel cost of$1.75 per gallon, those 600 gallons will cost $1,050. dollars, and theywould fill about 14.25 barrels having a capacity of 42 gallons. Almosteverything contained in a barrel of crude oil is refined and used tomake various petroleum products, but most refineries only produce about19 gallons of gasoline from a 42 gallon barrel of crude oil.Accordingly, about 1,326 gallons of crude oil are refined to producethose 600 gallons of gasoline, and such would fill about 31.6 barrelshaving a capacity of 42 gallons. One gallon of gasoline is equal to124,000 Btu, and thus 600 gallons of gasoline equals 74,400,000 Btu. Onekilowatt-hour of electricity is equal to 3,412 Btu. Accordingly, those600 gallons of gasoline equate to about 21,805 kilowatt-hours, thus overtwice what the average home in the United States consumes for basicelectric power and heating. Moreover, the burning of fossil fuels alsoresults in additional direct and indirect costs associated withpollution and global warming. While substantial, these indirect costsare difficult to estimate.

It is clear that United States needs to switch from automobiles whichburn gasoline and diesel fuel to electric vehicles as soon as possible.In this regard, it should be recognized that merely switching fromautomobiles that burn gasoline and diesel fuel to electric cars whichmust be charged by electric power plants which burn fossil fuels wouldnot provide a viable long term solution to the world's energy andpollution problems. At this time, and for the foreseeable future, theonly clean and renewable form of electric power comes from the sun. Thatpower needs to be made available where automobiles are most often used,thus along the sides of our nation's roads and highways. Accordingly,the creation of a network of solar arrays and a solar grid along roadsand highways can not only provide electric power for residential andcommercial use, but also support and make viable the use of electricvehicles.

FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of an artificial palm tree 29 thatconstitutes a solar array 30. The artificial palm tree 29 and solararray 30 can include a trunk 31 having a trunk bottom portion 32, atrunk middle portion 33, and trunk top portion 34. The truck bottomportion 32 can include an access door 35. The artificial palm tree 29and solar array 30 can include a central support pole 38 including abase 37 having a reinforced base flange 46. The base flange 46 can bearagainst a footing 126 including support platform 49 having a reinforcedplatform flange 50. The support platform 49 can include a bottom portionincluding a stand-off 43 for permitting concrete to substantiallyencompass the support platform 49. The concrete can be contained whenpoured by a circular shaped tube or form 41. The top side of theplatform flange 50 of the support platform 49 can then be madeapproximately level with the surrounding ground surface 36. The baseflange 46 can be secured to the platform flange 50 using bolts 47, nuts48, and washers 51 which can also be used to properly align the centralsupport pole 38 vertically. The artificial palm tree 29 and solar array30 can include a plurality of artificial palm fronds 72 that include atleast one solar panel or solar module 28 including at least one solarcell 73. The artificial palm tree 29 and solar array 30 can include atleast one layer 27 of artificial palm fronds 72, and each layer caninclude a plurality of artificial palm fronds 72 and solar modules 28.Alternatively, the structure and placement of the artificial palm fronds72 and solar modules 28 can be configured to appear more random.

FIG. 2 is a top plan view of an artificial leaf or palm frond 72 thatincludes at least one solar panel or solar module 28 for use with anartificial palm tree 29 that constitutes a solar array 30. Over twohundred varieties of palms exist in nature, and this particularembodiment generally resembles a banana leaf or palm frond. Theartificial palm frond 72 includes a stem portion 74, a blade portion 84,at least one electrical connection or socket 75, a top side 79, a bottomside 80, an edge 76, a plurality of notches 78, and can also include aplurality of artificial veins 77. The color of the solar cells 73 can bea medium or dark green, and that of the veins 77 and edge can be alighter green, yellow, or brown. Further the color of the individualsolar cells 73, and also both the top side 79 and bottom side 80 of theartificial palm frond 72 can be varied in different locations so as tocreate a natural appearance. The structure and color of the artificialpalm frond 72 can also be selected to maximize light absorption fromdifferent angles of incidence, and if desired, the structure and colorcan also be selected for its ability to coincidentally reflect lightwhich can then be absorbed by other nearby artificial palm fronds 72. Asshown in FIG. 2, the solar module 28 can include at least one solar cell73. Depending upon their particular structure and electrical properties,the solar cells 73 can be wired in series, or alternately they can bewired in parallel with other solar cells 73. Likewise, depending upontheir structure and electrical properties, the solar panels or modules28 can also be wired in series or parallel. The bottom side 80 of theartificial palm frond 72 can consist of plastic material such aspolyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane, a metal material such asaluminum, copper, stainless steel, or a ceramic material. Flexibleplastic or polyurethane materials can be advantageous for use, and inparticular, when an artificial palm frond 72 is configured to resembleone for a coconut palm or a date palm tree. As shown in FIG. 4, the palmfronds associated with these palm trees include a plurality of highlyflexible separate blades. Artificial palm fronds 72 and leaves which areflexible can be advantageous when attempting to simulate a naturalappearance. Moreover, artificial leaves, palm fronds, and branches whichare flexible also enhance the ability of these structures to beself-cleaning, as wind, morning dew, and rain can then better wash theirsurfaces clean. As shown in FIG. 2, the stem 74 portion of theartificial palm frond 72 measures approximately one and one half feet inlength and is approximately one inch in diameter. The blade 84 portionis approximately eight feet long and two feet wide, and has a workingsurface area of approximately twelve square feet. Accordingly, anartificial palm tree 29 or solar array 30 including thirty two suchartificial palm fronds 72 has a working surface area of 384 square feet,and so could provide double the power output of the model solar arraydiscussed earlier that used a plurality of solar modules 28 consistingof Powerfilm R15-1200 Powerfilm photovoltaic thin film having a workingsurface of only 192 square feet. And an artificial palm tree 29 or solararray 30 including thirty six such artificial palm fronds 72 and solarmodules 28 would have a working surface area of 432 square feet, andprovide even more power. Accordingly, a network including 660 such solararrays along a one mile stretch of highway could meet the needs ofapproximately 200 average homes.

FIG. 3 is a top plan view of an artificial palm frond 72 generallysimilar to that shown in FIG. 2. However, the artificial palm frond 72shown in FIG. 2 further includes a middle portion 81 and also peripheralportion 82, each of these portions including a plurality of separatesolar cells 73. The color as well as other physical and electricalproperties of the middle portion 81 and peripheral portion 82 of theartificial palm frond 72 can be selectively varied, as desired, in orderto enhance its efficiency and natural appearance. Depending upon thestructure and electrical characteristics of the solar cells 73 beingused, the use of more numerous solar cells 73, and the location of solarcells 73 in both the middle portion 81 and also the peripheral portion82 can increase the efficiency of the solar module 28 when partialshading of the artificial palm frond 72 would occur.

FIG. 4 is a top plan view of an artificial palm frond 72 generallysimilar to that shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. However, this particularembodiment includes a plurality of separate and relatively thin blades84. Accordingly, this embodiment of an artificial palm frond 72 has astructure configured to resemble the palm fronds associated with coconutpalms and date palms.

FIG. 5 is an enlarged side view of an alternate solar module 28including at least one solar cell 73 having a textured surface 103including a plurality of peaks 101 and valleys 102. A textured surface103 which is not perfectly planar and smooth can increase the effectiveworking area of a solar module 28 and solar cell 73. Accordingly, theuse of a textured surface 103 can sometimes enhance the light absorptionproperties, but also the light reflecting properties of a solar module28 and solar cell 73. Many plant species have leaves or exteriorsurfaces that are not perfectly smooth, rather they commonly includetextured surfaces, convolutions, or other irregularities. For example,many forms of seaweed have textured, ribbed or convoluted surfacesincluding numerous peaks and valleys, and this can provide greatersurface area both for collecting light, but also for absorbing nutrientsfrom the sea. Photovoltaic solar cells including textured surfaces areknown in the prior art, such as U.S. Pat. No. 6,552,405 granted toSugawara et al. and assigned to Kyocera Corporation, this patent herebybeing incorporated by reference herein.

FIG. 6 is a side cross-sectional view of an alternate solar module 28including an integral capacitor 104. The capacitor 104 can consist of arelatively thin layer which can be formed or deposited by conventionalmeans including but not limited to painting, coating, vapor and alsopowder deposition upon one of the substrates used to make the solarmodule 72. U.S. Pat. No. 6,480,366 and U.S. Patent Application2002/0158584 by James F. Cordaro teach painted capacitor energy storage,these two patent documents hereby being incorporated by referenceherein. As shown on the left side in FIG. 6, an integral capacitor 104can be positioned on the bottom side 80 of an artificial leaf or palmfrond 72, thus the top side 79 can be used exclusively for absorbinglight. Alternatively, as shown on the right side in FIG. 6, an integralcapacitor 104 can be positioned between the top side 79 and bottom side80 of an artificial leaf or palm frond 72, thus both the top side 79 andbottom side 80 can be used to absorb light. An artificial leaf or palmfrond 72 including a solar module 28 including at least one solar cell73 can be made in the general configuration shown on the left side ofFIG. 6, or alternatively, in the general configuration shown on theright side of FIG. 6. As shown, it is also possible to combine the twostructures illustrated in FIG. 6 when making a single solar module 72.Moreover, a plurality of solar modules 28 including capacitors 104 canbe selectively positioned in functional relation to a solar array 30 tomaximize both energy production and energy storage.

FIG. 7 is a top plan view of a layer 27 including a plurality ofartificial palm fronds 72. The artificial palm fronds 72 each include asolar module 28 including at least one solar cell 73, and can be used tocreate an artificial palm tree 29 that forms solar array 30. As shown,the layer 27 includes eight artificial palm fronds 72 each having a stem74 approximately one and one half foot long. The blade 84 has a maximumwidth of approximately two feet, a length of approximately eight feet,and a working surface area of approximately twelve square feet. Otherdimensions for the stem and blade portions can be used. However, giventhe configuration and dimensions shown in FIG. 7, a maximum blade 84width of approximately three feet is all that can be attempted withoutcausing portions of adjacent artificial palm fronds 72 to overlap oneanother. When less than eight artificial palm fronds 72 are used, thenthe width dimension of the blades 84 can be more easily increased.Generally, it is most advantageous to use between five and tenartificial palm fronds 72 in a single layer 27. As shown in FIG. 7, theartificial palm fronds 72 including solar modules 28 can be removablysecured to the top portion 34 of the trunk 21 of an artificial palm tree29.

FIG. 8 is a top plan view of two partially overlapping and staggeredlayers 27 of artificial palm fronds 72, each including a solar module 28including at least one a solar cell 73 for use with an artificial palmtree 29 that consists of a solar array 30. In particular, shown is afirst layer 27.1, and also a second layer 27.2 which is in a superiorposition relative to the first layer 27.1. Some photovoltaic solarpanels or modules that are made with a plurality of solar cells whichare wired in series can suffer a substantial degradation in their poweroutput when even a single solar cell is shaded. And some of these solarpanels or modules cannot be wired in parallel in order to simply correctfor this problem, as those solar cells which are being shaded can stillunduly influence the overall power output of the solar panel or solarmodule. However, it is possible to introduce transistors, diodes,sensors, chips, and controllers for monitoring the activity ofindividual solar cells, or groups of solar cells which are present in asolar module, as well as the activity between different solar modules,and then appropriately turn off, isolate, or otherwise control thecurrent either flowing from or being drawn towards a given solar cell orsolar module. In this way, any undesired effects which might be causedby shading, or by a solar cell possibly becoming damaged or renderedinoperable can be avoided. Accordingly, the operational efficiency ofthe solar module and solar array can be optimized. One of the advantagesof flexible thin film solar cells and also those which can be made bypainting or other coating processes is that they can be less prone tosuffering a dramatic reduction in their power output given low lightconditions, shading, or damage to individual solar cells. In many cases,when a portion of the solar cell is being shaded, then the power outputof that particular area is effected, but there is then little or nocollateral effect upon other solar cells in a given solar module.

It can be advantageous to design a solar array in order to maximize itspower output during operation. At some point, the introduction of agreater number of artificial palm fronds, or a larger size artificialpalm frond, or additional layers of artificial palm fronds can introducemore substantial shading and this can provide diminishing returns withregards to the efficiency of the solar array. It can also beadvantageous to consider and factor in the relative height, path,intensity, and position of the sun at various times of the year whendesigning and installing a solar array. In some cases, a single layerincluding between five and ten artificial palm fronds can provideoptimal efficiency, and the appearance of these solar arrays can thenmore closely resemble certain palm species such as coconut palms. Inother cases, a plurality of layers including solar modules consisting ofartificial palm fronds each including a plurality of relatively thinblades can be more suitable, and in particular, when attempting toimitate the appearance of date palms.

Another consideration is whether to provide solar cells on only the topside, or on both the top side and bottom side of some or all of theartificial palm fronds. Given the presence of light colored sand indesert conditions beneath a solar array, substantial light can bereflected from the surrounding ground surface to the solar modulesoverhead. Light can also be reflected by the artificial palm fronds toat least partially illuminate the top and bottom surfaces of otheradjacent artificial palm fronds including solar cells. In the past, mostconventional photovoltaic solar cells have been black or dark blue incoloration, as this was thought to maximize light absorption. However,in some circumstances it is possible for medium and dark greencoloration to actually maximize the total light absorption of a solararray when the effect of reflected light as between various artificialleaves or palm fronds is considered. Further, the use of dark blue orblack coloration can be associated with higher operating temperaturesand this can possibly result in more rapid degradation of an artificialpalm frond having a solar module including at least one solar cell overseveral decades of use.

FIG. 9 is a side perspective view of an artificial palm tree 29generally similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 forming a solararray 30, and showing the orientation of five layers 27 of artificialpalm fronds 72 each including a solar module 28 including at least onesolar cell 73. As shown, the artificial palm fronds 72 on theinferiormost first layer 27.1 are orientated downwards at approximately45 degrees, whereas those on the second layer 27.2 are orientatedapproximately horizontally. The artificial palm fronds 72 on the thirdlayer 27.3 are orientated upwards at approximately 30 degrees, whereasthose on the fourth layer 27.4 are orientated upwards at approximately45 degrees. The fifth layer 27.5 of artificial palm fronds 72 isorientated upwards between 45 and 90 degrees. The different orientationsof these layers and also the staggered placement of the artificial palmfronds 72 can permit the capture of substantial direct light and alsoreflected light by the solar array 30. The structure and configurationshown in FIG. 9 can also provide a large resulting working area, andtends to minimize counterproductive shading of adjacent artificial palmfronds 72 and solar modules 28.

FIG. 10 is a side cross-sectional view of a top portion 34 of the trunk31 of an artificial palm tree 29 including provision for four layers 27,and also of a cap portion 69 of the trunk 31 of an artificial palm tree29 including provision for one layer 27.5 showing both internal andexternal components. The top portion 34 of the trunk 31 includes a topportion 113 of pole 38 that includes a sleeve 70 which can be insertedwithin the inner diameter of the bottom portion 114 of the pole 38. Thesleeve 70 can be made integral to the top portion 113 of the pole 38, orcan be secured by mechanical fasteners such as bolts 61, or can bewelded thereto. Alternately, a sleeve 70 portion can extend from thebottom portion 114 of pole 38 and instead be received within the innerdiameter of the top portion 113 of the pole 38. The sleeve 70 and topportion 113 of the pole 38 can then be further removably secured to thebottom portion 114 of the pole 38 with the use of a long bolt 55, washer57, and nut 56. When the long bolt 55 is removed, the entire top portion34 and cap portion 69 of the trunk 31 including a plurality of solarmodules 28 can be lifted and removed using a rope or cable which can beattached to the external ring 64 present at the top of the cap portion69 of the trunk 31. Conversely, the entire top portion 34 and capportion 69 of the trunk 31 including a plurality of solar modules 28 canbe simply lifted and installed using a rope or cable that can beattached to the external ring 64 present at the top of the cap portion69 of the trunk 31. Accordingly, the process of installing, repairing,or renewing components of a solar array 30 is made fast and easy.

As shown in FIG. 10, the top portion 34 of the trunk 31 includes fourlayers 27, namely, layers 27.1, 27.2, 27.3, 27.4, and 27.5 of solarmodules 28, and each layer 27 can include between five and tenartificial palm fronds 72 including or essentially consisting of solarmodules 28. The conduit 39 containing and protecting the electrical wire115 terminates a short distance from the top of the middle portion 33 ofthe trunk 31 so as to avoid it possibly becoming damaged during theinstallation of the top portion 34 of the trunk 31. The electrical wire115 can include a plug 116 and socket 117 type connector 118 which caninclude locking means 141 for selectively locking the two subcomponentstogether so as to prevent accidental disconnection. Likewise, aplurality of electric power cords 67 can be used to connect each layer27 of solar modules 28 to the other, or alternatively, to simultaneouslyconnect all of the layers 27. The electric power cords 67 can be affixedto an internal ring 65 via a clip 66 and thereby be suspendedvertically.

The cap portion 69 of the trunk 31 can also include a sleeve 70, oralternatively, can receive a sleeve 70 for properly positioning andsecuring the cap portion 69 to the top portion 34 of the trunk 31. Thecap portion 69 can then be further removably secured by using a longbolt 55, nut 56, and washer 57. A portion of an artificial palm frond 72including or substantially consisting of a solar module 28 is also shownin position in FIG. 10. The stem 74 of the artificial palm frond 72 isconfigured to fit within the inner diameter of the receptacle 119. Thestem 74 can then be further secured using a bolt 58, nut 59, and washer60 which can either serve to clamp the receptacle 119 about the stem 74of the artificial palm frond 29, or alternatively, and as show in FIG.10, the bolt 58 can pass through an opening 120 in the stem 74. The stem74 can be provided with a plurality of alternate openings 120 forpossible use so as to permit the selection of a particular orientationof the artificial palm frond 72 during installation, as desired. Thewiring connection between the artificial palm frond 72 including thesolar module 28 can be made by manual means and the use of wire nuts 53,but as shown in FIG. 10, the wiring connection is preferably made withthe use of a plug 116 and socket 117 connector 118 including lockingmeans 141 which is generally similar in structure and function withthose used to connect the electrical wire 115 and the electric powercords 67, but being smaller in size. Many different styles and sizes ofconnectors 118 are commercially available and can be used. A seal 83 canbe used to cover and protect the junction of the stem 74 with thereceptacle 119, and so prevent the ingress of dirt, water, insects, orrodents which could cause damage to the solar array 30. When not all ofthe provided layers 27 or receptacles 119 are required or desired foruse in a given solar array 30, a plug 121 can be used to seal theopening 120 associated with a receptacle 119.

FIG. 11 is a side cross-sectional view of an alternate top portion 34 ofthe trunk 31 of an artificial palm tree 29 including provision for twolayers 27.1 and 27.2, and also a cap portion 69 including provision forone layer 27.5 for use in making a solar array 30 showing both internaland external components. As a result, the top portion 34 of the trunk 31of an artificial palm three 29 can be removably secured and assembledusing a component that includes provision for two layers 27.1 and 27.2,that is, if and when this configuration is desired.

FIG. 12 is a side cross-sectional view of an alternate top portion 34 ofthe trunk 31 of an artificial palm tree 29 including provision for onelayer 27.1 and also a cap portion 69 including provision for one layer27.5 for use in making a solar array 30 showing both internal andexternal components. As a result, the top portion 34 of the trunk 31 ofan artificial palm three 29 can be removably secured and assembled usinga component that includes provision for only one layer 27.1, that is, ifand when this configuration is desired. The provision of multiple powercords 67 each providing sufficient wiring for one layer of solar modules28 which can be easily coupled together can facilitate rapid assembly.The possible provision of alternate top portions 34 in one, two, or fourlayer 27 configurations makes it possible to easily assemble differentresulting structures. Accordingly, the power generating capability andalso the aesthetic appearance of a solar array 30 can be customized.

FIG. 13 is a side view of an alternate middle portion 33 of the trunk 31of an artificial palm tree 29 with parts broken away. The middle portion33 includes at least two segments or sections 90, and in particular,sections 90.1 and 90.2, which can be removably secured together with theuse of a long bolt 55, nut 56 and washer 57 in order to determine theoverall height of the resulting trunk 31 of an artificial palm tree 29,as desired. Shown in FIG. 13 is a section 90.1 having a length of eightfeet, and another section 90.2 having a length of four feet.Accordingly, multiple sections 90.1 and 90.2 can be easily combined invarious partial or complete combinations to create trunks 31 andartificial palm trees 29 having different heights. The configuration andtexture of the outer surface of the trunk 31 can be made to resemblethat of a palm tree by making the molds for these components from anactual palm tree. The trunk 31 can then be made of plastic,polyurethane, fiberglass, metal, ceramic, and also natural organic andfibrous materials in various combinations.

FIG. 14 is a side cross-sectional view of an alternate top portion 34and cap portion 69 of a trunk 31 for use in making an artificial palmtree 29. As shown, the top portion 34 and cap portion 69 have greaterwidth that the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, and this can provide spacefor accommodating and substantially concealing a transformer 100. Astep-up transformer can be used to step-up the voltage being generatedby the solar array so that it can be more efficiently carried over longdistances. Conversely, a step-down transformer can be used to step-downthe voltage being carried by a high voltage power line. A transformercan be connected to overhead transmission lines, or alternatively toburied power lines which can carry DC current or AC current. Shown is aduct 125 including a vent 68 having a screen 63 for permittingventilation while preventing the entry of birds, bees, or other foreignmatter.

FIG. 15 is a side cross-sectional view of the bottom portion 32 of atrunk 31, and also a footing 126 including a support platform 49 for anartificial palm tree 29 that forms a solar array 30 showing bothinternal and external components. As shown, the bottom portion 32 of thetrunk 31 gradually widens as it approaches the ground surface 36, thussimulating the appearance of many palm tree species. The bottom portion32 of the trunk 31 can include at least one access door 35 to aninterior compartment 122. The support pole 38 can further include acover 123 and a gasket 124 which permits access to a wire connection 52between the solar array 30 and electric wire 115. The wire connection 52can be secured by wire nuts 53, or alternatively, by other conventionalfastening means such as bolts or screws associated with a junction box54. The electric wire 115 can be protected from damage by a conduit 39made of metal or plastic, and in particular, in areas where the soil,insects, or rodents could cause harm or degradation to the wire 115.

The base 37 of the pole 38 includes a reinforced flange 46 that providesseveral openings for the passage of bolts 47. The base 37 of the pole38, and in particular, the inferior side of the flange 46 is configuredto bear upon a footing 126 which can include a submerged platform 49including a reinforced flange 50. The vertical alignment of the pole 38can be adjusted at the junction of flange 46 and flange 50 with the useof one or more washers 51 when the bolts 47 and nuts 48 are secured. Theplatform 49 can include a stand-off at the inferior side for permittingthe conduit 39 and conduit fitting 40 including the electric wire 115 topass directly beneath, but also to permit the concrete 42 used in thefooting 126 to substantially encompass the platform 49. The concrete 42can be further reinforced by including metal rebar 44 therein. The rebar44 can be configured as desired and secured with the use of tie wire 45prior to pouring the concrete 42. A circular hole or pit can be drilledin the ground using power equipment and a circular or tube shaped form41 can be inserted into the hole or pit for properly containing theconcrete 42 when it is poured. It can be readily understood that theparticular configuration, structure, and size of a footing 126 can varydepending upon the geology, soil conditions, climate, and seismiccharacteristics of the installation site.

FIG. 16 is a side cross-sectional view of the bottom portion 32 of thetrunk 31 and of an artificial palm tree 29 that constitutes a solararray 30 showing both internal and external components generally similarto that shown in FIG. 15. However, instead of the solar array 30 beingdirectly connected by an electric wire 115 to a network of solar arraysand a solar power grid or conventional electric power grid, the solararray 30 further includes a number of devices which can be locatedinternally. In particular, a solar array 30 can include in variouspartial or complete combinations, an inverter 91 such as a Sunnyboybrand grid-tie inverter made by SMA America, Inc. of Grass Valley,Calif. for converting DC current to AC current, a converter forconverting AC current to DC current, a transformer, a battery 97 andassociated battery cables 98, a battery box 99, a junction box 54, acontrol panel, an AC circuit breaker, a DC circuit breaker, an ACdisconnect 94, a DC disconnect 95, a meter, a ground fault switch, apower surge protection device, a fuse, a capacitor, a resistor, atransistor, a diode, a chip, a battery controller 109, a battery statusmeter 110, a generator, conduit 39 including suitable electric wire 115,a retractable extension cord including a plug, a light, an adapter forrecharging small batteries, appliances and power tools, and, an electricpower recharging cord 112 for recharging a vehicle such as an electricscooter, bicycle, car, boat, or aircraft. The recharging cord 112 can bemounted within the interior compartment 122 of the base 32 on anautomatic retractable reel, whereas the end of the recharging cord 112including the connector 118 can be located externally and be readilyaccessible for use. It can be readily understood that some of thedevices and things recited in this paragraph can be combined instructure and function in the form of hybrid devices.

FIG. 17 is a top perspective view of an access door 35 to the interiorcompartment 122 of the bottom portion 32 of the trunk 31 of anartificial palm tree 29 which forms a solar array 30: As shown, theaccess door 35 can include a transparent window 127 on the exterior side142 for viewing the status of one or more devices such as an inverter91, a meter, an AC disconnect, a DC disconnect, a battery controller109, and a battery status meter 110. A battery controller 109 can beused to prevent overcharging of a battery, and also to reverse electricpower flow at night. As shown, the visual display 158 associated withthese electronic devices, and the like, can be mounted near or directlyto the interior side 143 of the access door 35, whereby these devicescan be easily viewed and serviced. As shown, the access door canincluded a keyed lock 145, or other closure and locking means.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a grid-tie power center 151 which couldbe used in a typical residential installation in combination with one ormore solar arrays 30 resembling natural foliage according to the presentinvention. Shown is an inverter 91 for converting DC current to ACcurrent, an AC disconnect 94, a DC disconnect 95, a meter 93, a controlpanel 108 including circuit breakers 144, and conduit 39 containingsuitable wire 115. A grid-tie power center 151, or alternately anoff-grid power center, can also include or integrate in various partialor complete combinations a battery and associated battery cables, abattery box, a battery status meter, a battery controller, a groundfault switch, a surge protector, a converter, a transformer, anextension cord, a light, a generator, an adapter for recharging smallbatteries, appliances, and power tools, and an electric power rechargingcord for recharging a vehicle such as an electric scooter, bicycle, car,or boat.

FIG. 19 shows a row 128 of artificial palm trees 29 that consist ofsolar arrays 30 on one side of a street 85. The solar arrays 30 have astructure configured to resemble natural foliage and can be placed incommunication to create a network 153 of solar arrays 30 that constituteat least a portion of a solar power grid 154. Further, the solar arrays30 can be individually connected to power transmission lines associatedwith a power grid. Alternatively, a plurality of solar arrays 30 can beconnected together, and then connected as a group to power transmissionlines. The solar arrays 30 can be wired together in series, oralternately in parallel. When a plurality of solar arrays 30 are wiredtogether for connecting to an AC power grid, a grid-tie inverter can beused. The artificial palm trees 29 are aesthetically more pleasing thanconventional overhead power lines, and also the sparse vegetation foundby the sides of roads and highways in the Southwest area of the UnitedStates and other arid regions of the world. The artificial palm trees 29are shown near a curb 86 and adjacent sidewalk 87. Besides providingclean and renewable electric power, the solar arrays 30 can also provideshade and serve as a windbreak. Unlike natural foliage which isdifficult to maintain by the sides of roads and highways in theSouthwest area of the United States and other arid regions of the world,an artificial palm tree 29 always has a healthy appearance, never needswatering, and requires little maintenance. In desert areas, the shadeprovided by artificial palm trees 29 can be used to facilitate thecultivation of natural foliage and agriculture. A network of solararrays 30 can also be positioned along canals and pipelines. The powerproduced by a solar array 30 can be used to pump oil, or water, and alsoto desalinate and filter water for residential and agricultural use.Solar water heating devices such as those made by Maltezos S A ofAthens, Greece can then be used to provide hot water. Solar arrays 30can also be positioned alongside railways for providing power forelectric trains. The ability to generate and distribute power where itis actually needed can result in logistical and economic efficiency. Inthis regard, the location, pattern, and density of public roads andhighways generally well reflects the local population density and demandfor energy. Accordingly, the creation of a network 153 of solar arrays30, and at least one solar power grid 154 alongside public roads can beconsistent with the local economy of scale.

FIG. 20 shows a row 128 of artificial palm trees 29 that consist ofsolar arrays 30 located on both sides of a street 85. The solar arrays30 have a structure configured to resemble natural foliage and can belinked together to create a network 153 of solar arrays 30 and a solarpower grid 154. FIG. 20 conveys some sense of the structure andaesthetic impression created by a network 153 including a plurality ofsolar arrays 30.

FIG. 21 is a top plan view of a section of interstate highway 129showing one possible configuration of a plurality of artificial palmtrees 29 consisting of solar arrays 30 positioned in staggered doublerows 128 on each side of the highway 129. The solar arrays 30 have astructure configured to resemble natural foliage and can be linkedtogether to create a network 153 of solar arrays 30 and a solar powergrid 154. In FIG. 21, the opposite lanes 152 of the interstate highway129 each have two shoulders 147, and are separated by a center divideror barrier 146. Further, the topography to the outside of both lanes 152of the interstate highway 129 is characterized by gradually increasingvertical elevation and hills 157. Many other landscapes, topographicalcharacteristics, and configurations are possible. As shown, theartificial palm trees 29 are positioned approximately thirty-two feetapart in each row 128, and the two rows 128 are also separated bythirty-two feet. Other dimensions can be used, as desired, but it can beadvantageous to provide sufficient spacing to prevent substantialshading of adjacent solar arrays 30. The height, diameter, andcomposition of the artificial palm trees 29 can be varied, and otherstyles and types of artificial foliage consisting of alternative solararrays can be used in synergistic combination with the artificial palmtrees 129, or alternatively, with evergreen or deciduous trees, as maybe desired. Accordingly, many combinations and permutations arepossible. The ability to provide a large number of differentcombinations can be functional from the standpoint of optimizing powergeneration, and can also serve aesthetic purposes consistent with thebest practices of engineering and landscape architecture.

Moreover, the present invention anticipates and teaches making variousplanning models for application to common road configurations regardingthe installation of solar arrays, and also recharging stations. Forexample, various standardized models can be created for installationsalongside relatively straight one mile stretches or other standarddistances such as one kilometer stretches of two lane, divided two lane,divided four lane, divided three lane, and other common road and highwayconfigurations. Appropriate models can also be made for various commonintersections such as four way intersections, T shaped intersections, Lshaped intersections, turnabouts, and various on and off rampconfigurations associated with roads and highways. Accordingly, theplanning for various installations can be made relatively fast and easy,and both the costs and electrical power generated by any selected set ofoptions can be known with a great degree of certainty. A city, county,state, or federal planner, or an elected official such as acommissioner, mayor, governor, representative, or senator can then beempowered with accurate information for decision making concerning theinstallation of a network of solar arrays, recharging stations, andother devices and structures associated with a solar power grid.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an electric or hybrid automobile 130that is parked at an electric recharging station 131 by the side of astreet. The roof 150 of the recharging station can include conventionalphotovoltaic solar panels 149. Manufacturers of conventionalphotovoltaic solar panels 149 include Kyocera Solar, Inc. of Scottsdale,Ariz., Sharp Electronics Corporation, Inc. of Mahwah, N.J., EvergreenSolar of Marlboro, Mass., BP Solar of Linthicum, Md., and Shell Solar ofCamarillo, Calif. The recharging station 131 can serve as an energystorage facility, and can be in communication with electric power whichis produced by a network 153 of artificial palm trees 29 or other formsof artificial foliage which constitute solar arrays 30. The solar arrays30 can line the sides of at least one street, or a nearby highway. Thenetwork 153 of solar arrays 30 and recharging station 131 can form or bein communication with one or more solar power grids 154. Moreover, asolar power grid 154 can be linked to one or more conventional powergrids.

FIG. 23 is a top view of an artificial oak leaf 132 for use with anartificial deciduous oak tree 135 which consists of a solar array 30.The artificial oak leaf 132 can include a solar module 28 having atleast one solar cell 73. As shown, the artificial oak leaf 132 caninclude a stem 74, a blade portion 84, notches 78 and veins 77.

FIG. 24 is a top view of an artificial maple leaf 133 for use with anartificial deciduous maple tree 136 which consists of a solar array 30.The artificial maple leaf 133 can include a solar module 28 having atleast one solar cell 73. As shown, the artificial maple leaf 133 caninclude a stem 74, a blade portion 84, notches 78 and veins 77.

FIG. 25 is a side perspective view of an artificial deciduous maple tree136 which consists of a solar array 30. The artificial maple tree 136includes a trunk 31 and a plurality of artificial branches 139 whichinclude a plurality of artificial maple leaves 133. Again, theartificial maple leaves 133 can include a solar module 28 having atleast one solar cell 73. The trunk 31 can be made in a plurality ofsections having different lengths such as sections 90.1 and 90.2, andthe height of an artificial maple tree 136 can then be varied, asdesired.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a portion of an artificial branch 139including leaves 134 for use with an artificial evergreen tree 137 thatconsists of a solar array 30. The artificial leaf 134 can include asolar module 28 having at least one solar cell 73. As shown in FIG. 26,the branches 139 and leaves 134 can be made to resemble those of awestern red cedar or sequoia. It is possible to use conventional moldingand cutting techniques to make at least a portion of an artificialbranch 139 including leaves 134.

FIG. 27 is a side perspective view of an artificial evergreen tree 137such as a western red cedar which consists of a solar array 30. Theleaves or needles of the cedar tree and also sequoias are relativelyplanar, and in particular, when compared with the leaves or needles ofmany other evergreen trees. In this regard, the leaves or needles of acedar tree have the appearance of having been pressed. Gravity thencauses the leaves and branches of cedar trees to drape and take on asoft random feathered appearance. Because of the relatively planarconfiguration of their leaves, it is possible to made artificialbranches and leaves 134 resembling those of the western red cedar andsequoia. The leaves 134 can include a solar module 28 including at leastone thin-film solar cell 73, or alternatively one made by painting, orother coating process.

FIG. 28 is a top view of an artificial fern leaf 138 for making anartificial fern plant. The artificial fern leaf 138 can include a solarmodule 28 having at least one solar cell 73. As shown, the artificialfern leaf 138 can include a stem 74, a blade portion 84 includingnotches 78, and veins 77.

FIG. 29 is a side perspective view showing an artificial palm tree 29which consists of a solar array 30. In this embodiment, the leaves orartificial palm fronds 72 can include a solar module 28 made of arelatively rigid material including monocrystalline silicon,polycrystalline silicon, crystalline gallium arsenide, and the like. Theartificial palm fronds 72 can be relatively rigid and the solar modules28 including at least one solar cell 73 can then be affixed to arelatively rigid substrate. In this regard, glass reinforced plastics,ceramics, or metal materials such as aluminum or stainless steel can beused. Using conventional photovoltaic solar cells 73 that are presentlycommercially available, the solar modules 28 and solar array 30 shown inFIG. 29 can have an efficiency of approximately 14-16 percent. However,given the status of current research and development efforts in thesolar industry something exceeding 35 percent efficiency may be possibleto achieve within the next decade. For example, Spectrolab of Sylmar,Calif., a subsidiary of The Boeing Company has achieved an efficiency of36.9 percent with a photovoltaic cell. Given the commercial productsavailable today, the efficiency of a solar cell made using a crystallinesilicon material is then nearly three times that of one made usingamorphous thin-film materials which commonly enjoy an efficiency of only5-6 percent. However, the former solar cells are more expensive and lessenvironmentally friendly to manufacture relative to the latter.

As shown in FIG. 29, a solar array 30 can have eight artificial palmfronds 72 including solar modules 28 each having a working area of 18square feet. Accordingly, the solar array 30 has a total working area ofabout 144 square feet, or approximately two square meters. Given anefficiency of 15 percent, the solar array 30 will produce about 300watt-hours, thus about 2.4 kilowatt-hours during an eight hour period.However, given an efficiency of 35 percent, such a solar array 30 wouldproduce about 700 watt-hours, thus about 5.6 kilowatt-hours during aneight hour period. In comparison, the model discussed previously of asolar array made using some thirty-two artificial palm fronds includingsolar modules having solar cells consisting of an amorphous thin-filmmaterial, and in particular, R15-1200 Powerfilm ® made by Iowa Thin FilmTechnology, Inc. enjoyed a working surface area of 192 square feet andcould produce 4.6 kilowatt-hours during an eight hour period.

FIG. 30 is a flow diagram showing a solar array 30 linked to a grid-tieinverter for changing DC current to AC current, and then also to a lowvoltage AC (LVAC) power transmission line associated with a conventionalAC power grid. The AC power grid can further include step-uptransformers for creating high voltage AC (HVAC) current from lowvoltage AC current for long distance distribution. Further, the AC powergrid can further include step-down transformers for converting highvoltage AC power to low voltage AC power. Many other devices and meansare also commonly used to generate and control electric power within apower grid, including but not limited to generators, capacitors,combiners, inductors, shot reactors, transformers, breakers, means forbalancing power swings such as a static var compensator, thyristors, athyristor-controlled series capacitor, and the like. Power coming into aresidence in the United States is normally 120 volts (V) or 220 V AC ata frequency of 60 cycles per second, whereas local distribution linescommonly carry voltages of 6.9 kilovolts (kV), 13.8 kV, 27.6 kV, 44 kV,and high voltage AC transmission lines can be at 115 kv, 230 kV, or 500kv.

FIG. 31 is a flow diagram showing a network of solar arrays which format least a portion of a solar power grid. As shown, the solar arrays cantransmit power using low voltage DC (LVDC) lines. The DC solar powergrid can be linked to an AC power grid. Inverters can be used to changeDC to AC current, and converters can be used to change AC to DC current.Step-up transformers can be used to change low voltage DC current tohigh voltage DC current (HVDC), or low voltage AC current (LVAC) to highvoltage AC current (HVAC). Conversely, step-down transformers can beused to change HVDC to LVDC, or HVAC to LVAC. Many other devices andmeans are also commonly used to generate and control electric powerwithin a power grid. Given the technology which is available at thepresent time and at distances greater than 500 miles, high voltage DCpower is less expensive to transmit than high voltage AC power. Lowvoltage DC power can generally be transmitted as inexpensively as ACpower for a distance of 50 km when buried underground, and also for adistance of 600-800 km when transmitted by overhead power lines. If thepower being produced by the solar arrays will primarily be used locally,then the use of low voltage DC power can indeed be efficient. Various DCcombiners and converters can be used with a DC solar power grid.Further, it is anticipated that low voltage DC power created by anetwork including a plurality of solar arrays can be changed using astep-up transformer to create high voltage DC (HVDC) current which canbe efficiently transmitted long distances using superconductors.

While the above detailed description of the invention contains manyspecificities, these should not be construed as limitations on the scopeof the invention, but rather as exemplifications of several preferredembodiments thereof. Although the present invention has been describedwith reference to preferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art willrecognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departingfrom the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the scope ofthe invention should be determined not by the embodiments discussed orillustrated, but by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

1. A solar array comprising: a structure configured to resemble a palmtree comprising: at least one trunk portion; a plurality of solarmodules; wherein at least one of said solar modules is configured toresemble a palm frond comprising: a stem portion and a blade portion,said stem portion extending from said at least one trunk portion, saidblade portion including at least one solar cell having a working surfacearea for capturing sunlight and for providing an electrical energyoutput; at least one electrically transmissive element coupled to saidplurality of solar modules for conducting said electrical energy output;and at least one mechanical fastener for securing said solar array in anupright position; wherein said at least one trunk portion comprises atleast one receptacle for receiving and coupling with the stem portionsof said solar modules, said at least one receptacle providing at leastone point of access to said at least one electrically transmissiveelement.
 2. The solar array according to claim 1, further comprising abattery coupled with said at least one electrically transmissiveelement.
 3. The solar array according to claim 1, further comprising atleast one electronic component selected from the group of electroniccomponents consisting of a diode, a capacitor, a sensor, a controller, achip, and a transistor coupled with said at least one electricallytransmissive element.
 4. The solar array according to claim 1, whereinat least one of said solar modules has a green coloration.
 5. The solararray according to claim 1, wherein said at least one trunk portioncomprises a coupling structure adapted to selectively couple said trunkportion to at least one other trunk portion.
 6. The solar arrayaccording to claim 1, wherein said at least one trunk portion comprisesat least one top trunk portion coupled with said plurality of solarmodules.
 7. The solar array according to claim 1, wherein said solararray further comprises a support pole coupled with said at least onetrunk portion.
 8. The solar array according to claim 1, wherein said atleast one trunk portion comprises an interior compartment adapted tocontain at least one electrical device.
 9. The solar array according toclaim 1, wherein said at least one trunk portion comprises a pluralityof top trunk portions, each top trunk portion comprising a plurality oflayers having a plurality of said solar modules, a position of saidsolar modules on a first layer of said layers being staggered relativeto the position of the solar modules on at least one adjacent layer ofsaid layers.
 10. The solar array according to claim 1, wherein saidsolar array provides an electrical signal output and further comprisingan inverter for changing DC current to AC current.
 11. The solar arrayaccording to claim 1, wherein said solar array is adapted to transmit anelectrical signal to at least one of a rechargeable electrical energystorage device and an electric appliance coupled with said output. 12.The solar array according to claim 1, wherein the solar array is adaptedto transmit an electrical signal to an electrical storage device of atransportation vehicle.
 13. The solar array of claim 1, coupled with atleast one additional said solar array to form a network of solar arrays.14. The solar array of claim 13, wherein said network of solar arrayscomprises at least a portion of an electric power grid.
 15. The solararray of claim 14, wherein said network of solar arrays is coupled withat least one recharging station adapted to provide energy to electricpower storage devices of transportation vehicles.
 16. The solar array ofclaim 1, wherein said at least one trunk portion comprises: a bottomtrunk portion; at least one middle trunk portion; and at least one toptrunk portion, and a cap portion.
 17. The solar array of claim 1,wherein the coloration of said solar array is varied in differentlocations so as to create a natural appearance.
 18. The solar arrayaccording to claim 1, wherein said solar array provides an electricalcurrent output and further comprising an converter for changing ACcurrent to DC current.
 19. The solar array according to claim 1, furthercomprising at least one electrical device including a visual display.20. A method of making a custom solar array resembling a palm treecomprising the steps of: providing a plurality of trunk portions havingdifferent configurations and lengths; selecting at least one of saidtrunk portions for use, said at least one of said trunk portionscomprising a plurality of receptacles that provide points of access towiring; providing a plurality of solar modules configured to resemblepalm fronds, each solar module including at least one solar cell havinga working surface area for capturing sunlight and for providing anelectrical energy output; selecting at least five of said plurality ofsolar modules configured to resemble palm fronds for use; connectingsaid selected at least five solar modules configured to resemble palmfronds to said at least one selected trunk portion such that said stemportions extend from said at least one selected trunk portion, saidselected at least five solar modules being spaced about thecircumference of said at least one selected trunk portion; receiving andcoupling said stem portions of said solar modules configured to resemblepalm fronds within said plurality of receptacles such that saidelectrical energy output is conducted by said wiring; and, installingsaid solar array.